When most people hear the phrase ECSC, they think of parties, girls, and flat waves. While the first two lived up to the normal hype, tropical storm Danny spun its way right off the mid-Atlantic coast right on time, providing very fun surf for some of the East Coast’s top pros and amateurs.

With Coastal Edge stepping up as the main event sponsor, the event was taken to the next level this year. Tents were stacked everywhere you looked on the beach and in the parking lots. With the deluge of surf companies raising their flags and banners, it looked and felt like an East Coast version of the U.S. Open. And just like how the U.S. Open had some of the best surf in its history, this year’s ECSC followed suit with rippable chest to head-high waves for most of the event.

Going into the final day most people had their money on the usual favorites: Asher “the Slasher” Nolan and Aaron “Gorkkkkyy” Cormican. These two showed why they’ve both won here before and lived up to the hype, attacking waves almost as hard as they attacked the local bar scene the previous nights. Rounding out the final was New Smyrna’s Nils Schweitzer and Jackson Beach local Wayne Satterwhite.

Gorkin started out strong and never looked back, punting airs and throwing reverses as if he were right at home. With the win, Gorkin made it his third east coast comp win in a row and fourth victory in five years at the ECSC. “I’m really happy to come up here and pull through with a win” said an elated Cormican. “I’m also super stoked to see my boy Nils make the final.” On the Pro Junior side New Jersey’s own Rob Kelly brought his A game against some of the best juniors on the right coast. Rob was able to slash his way to victory backside and take home a quick 1G straight back to the Garden State.